So, you've been left to plan your work Christmas party - but you have NO idea where to start, or what to do. I've compiled a few tips to take the stress out of planning the work event of the year!
First things first, let's get the location right! Getting the location right for your work's Christmas party is crucial for the night to be a big success! Pick a location that is relatively close to where you work/where the majority of your staff are based. Unless you're providing accommodation for your staff and allowing time off for them to travel, it makes sense to have the party near where people go to work.
This helps if it's a Friday as people can get ready together after work and then share lifts/taxis; but also because most people already live a sensible distance away from their place of work, so it should be relatively easy for people to get there. You know your staff/colleagues, and you want to make it as easy as possible for people to be able to come along and enjoy the evening. Therefore, spending a bit of time considering the location of the event is essential to organising a successful Christmas party!
Then you want to get the food spot on! As much as I love a traditional Christmas meal, don't think that you have to serve turkey and pigs in blankets at the Christmas party. If your chosen venue allows you to have options, it's great to have that on the list of choices, but to also offer other alternatives.
Make sure that the menu is seasonal and uses produce that is in season in the UK at this time of year. This isn't the time to have a panna cotta and mango; opt for seasonal berries or warm dessert options as your menu choices. Like at any time of year, ensure that you check with your guests/attendees if they have any dietary requirements and make sure that there are options suitable for vegetarians and vegans on any set menus.
If you're looking to do something a bit different, as the idea of an organised Christmas party night isn't appealing; choose activities where people can have a laugh and also have a catch up. Just because you all work together it doesn't mean that you get a chance to have a chat during the week!
Consider booking a mobile cocktail making class or perhaps a wreath making course? These are great ideas for more intimate celebrations and for getting your team together to have a laugh! Perhaps you want to head out for axe throwing or darts - anything that you think may appeal to your team. Remember, it doesn't have to be Christmas related!
If you're still feeling stuck, get in touch to see how I can help with planning your Christmas do!
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